16 Years Since Her Passing: Model Daul Kim, Still a Cherished Name

It has been 16 years since the world lost the remarkable model Daul Kim.

Daul Kim tragically passed away on November 19, 2009, at her home in Paris, France.

Her former agency, ESTEEM, explained that she 'likely didn't want to show herself descending from her peak position.' The agency revealed that Kim, who pursued a wide range of artistic endeavors from a young age, including modeling, painting, writing, documentary filmmaking, and fashion design, had lived a passionate life striving to achieve everything. It is believed she felt anxiety about her remaining years.

Furthermore, she reportedly experienced significant mental distress and wandering due to a sense of loss for not being able to live a normal life like her peers, and the gap between the expectations she held before reaching the top and the feelings she experienced after achieving it.

ESTEEM also stated that Kim dedicated herself to every project with the pure passion of an artist, and strongly resisted her work being perceived purely for commercial gain. The agency speculated that she was deeply hurt by the reality that 'this world often fails to recognize individuals unless fame and commercial conditions are linked,' a sentiment that resonated with many.

Upon hearing the devastating news, G-Dragon expressed his condolences, writing, 'Rest in peace, Daul Kim. Daul, please rest well. I will pray for you. Goodbye.' Fellow models, including Hyuksoo Lee and Hye Park, also paid tribute to the late model.

A year after her passing, in a broadcast program, senior model Han Hye-jin tearfully reflected, 'I feel guilty about Daul Kim's death. As an older sister, I should have bought her meals more often,' adding to the public's sorrow.

Daul Kim first gained attention at the young age of 13 when she began her modeling career. She made a name for herself at the world's four major fashion weeks in New York and Paris. In 2008, she was selected as one of NY Magazine's 'Top 10 Models to Watch' and received the Fashion Model Award at the 'Asia Model Festival Awards,' solidifying her status as a global top model.

Netizens have been sharing their memories, commenting, 'I can't believe it's already been 16 years,' 'Her unique aura and talent are still vivid,' and 'I hope she is at peace in heaven.'